After four trials and no verdict, a single page signed by Commonwealth's Attorney Chris Shaw could spell freedom for Brent Burke.

Burke has been behind bars for nearly four years, charged in the deaths of his estranged wife, Tracy, and her former mother-in-law, Karen Comer.

"As a person released back into society, the law would encourage placing him back in time where he was before he was prosecuted, incarcerated and now dismissed," said Frank Mascagni, a Louisville attorney providing legal analysis.

He has no ties to Burke's case.

"You have a multitude of factors," he said. "One, he could sue the commonwealth for false arrest, malicious prosecution, slander. If he was fired based on these charges, he would have the right to seek re-employment; he'd have the right to seek any lost benefits over the last four years."

Another compounding factor is that Burke has two biological children by his deceased wife. One of those children testified against Burke in court, saying he saw Burke shoot his mother.

With charges dropped, Burke could pursue custody.

"It's my understanding he has children. I'm sure he's not had much contact with them, so he would have the right to petition a family court judge for the right to restore his visitation and relationship with his children in stages," Mascagni said.